Wartenberg wheel

For other uses of "Wartenberg", see Wartenberg.

A Wartenberg wheel (also called a pinwheel or neurowheel) is a medical device for neurological use. It was originally designed by Dr Robert Wartenberg to test nerve reactions as it glided across the skin. A Wartenberg wheel is generally made of stainless steel with a handle of approximately seven inches in length. The wheel, which has evenly spaced radiating sharp pins, rotates around as it is rolled across the flesh. A disposable plastic version is available.

Non-medical use

Wartenberg wheels are a popular BDSM toy, proven by its constant presence on the bestsellers list of BDSM retailers. Similar in appearance to a pizza cutter, this wheel of prickly little pins is rolled over a person's skin, generating a unique, tingly sensation which many people really respond to. The pins are pointy enough to feel quite stimulating wherever they go but are not sharp enough to puncture the skin unless excessive pressure is used.